Description
Learn how to make delicious homemade pesto with fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and pine nuts. This easy recipe is perfect for pasta, sandwiches, and more!
Ingredients
Scale
Fresh Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves (packed)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup pine nuts
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Extra olive oil for storing if needed
Instructions
- Prepare Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Add Cheese: Add Parmesan cheese and pulse to combine.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: With the processor running, slowly drizzle in olive oil until smooth.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Store: Use immediately or store in an airtight container with a layer of olive oil on top to prevent browning. Refrigerate for up to a week or freeze.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, use sunflower seeds or omit nuts.
- Walnuts can be used as a budget-friendly alternative to pine nuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
